Our first try at a Malbec was from Catena, and this particular vintage was our favorite. We enjoyed many bottles several years ago, and for a long time it served as our benchmark for the variety. For some reason, the last bottle remained an orphan in our cellar since we downed the last one back in the winter of '03.

It was as lovely as we remembered, with an inky purple color and explosive nose of black plums and blackberry jam. Dark fruit flavors tumble over the tongue, with medium body, a texture of velvet, and polished tannins providing the structure. Hints of smokey tobacco add complexity to a lingering finish. Lovely wine, and nice quality at around $19 locally. 13.7% alc.